CAVALRY TACTICS.

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TITLE FIRST.

BASIS OF INSTRUCTION.

ARTICLE FIRST.  

FORMATION OF A REGIMENT OF FIVE SQUADRONS
IN ORDER OF BATTLE, (OR IN LINE.)

    The squadrons of a regiment in order of battle are distinguished by the denomination of 1st, 2d, 3d, 4th, and 5th; they are formed on the same line, in the order of these numbers, commencing on the right, and with an interval of 12 paces.
    This is the primitive and habitual order of the squadrons in regiments.
    Each squadron is composed of four platoons, distinguished by the denomination of 1st, 2d, 3d, and 4th, commencing on the right.
       The 1st and 2d platoons form the 1st division, the 3d and 4th form the 2d division.
       The formation is in two ranks; the oldest sol­diers in each platoon are placed in the front rank, and from right to left in each rank.
    When the squadron is to be exercised, it is composed habitually of 48 files; consequently, each division is composed of 24 files, and each platoon of 12; if the squadron is increased to 64 files, the platoon is then divided into 2 sections; that on the right is the first, and that on the left the second.
    That which is prescribed for the formation when mounted, is applicable to the formation on foot.

Posts of the Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers of the Field and Staff
of a Regiment in order of battle.

   (Plate. 1.) The Colonel 25 paces in front of the centre of the regiment, having a chief bugler behind him.
   The Lieutenant-Colonel 12 paces in advance of the centre of the right wing. 
   The Major 12 paces in advance of the centre of the left wing.
   The Colonel moves wherever his presence may be necessary.
   The Lieutenant-Colonel and Major move wherever the Colonel may think proper to direct them. 
   The Adjutant on a line with the front rank, 2 paces from the right of the regiment. When the regiment marches in line with the guide right, it is his duty to give the points of direction, and superintend the guides and the direction of the march.
   The Sergeant-Major on a line with the front rank, 2 paces to the left of the regiment. He is charged with the same functions as the Adjutant, when the march is in line with the guide left. 
   The Adjutant, assisted by the Sergeant-Major, is also charged with the tracing of the lines. 
   The standard-bearer is placed at the last file but one from the left of the front rank of the platoon on the right of the centre of the regiment. 
   General staff officers serving with the regiment, 25 paces in rear of the right of the 1st squadron, according, to rank.
   The Quartermaster-Sergeant behind the Adjutant, on the line of the rear rank.
    The general guides of the right and left are placed in the rank of file-closers, in rear of the Sergeant-Major and Quartermaster-Sergeant. 
   The Trumpeters, formed in two ranks, are posted 25 paces in rear of the centre of the regiment.
   The Trumpeters of a squadron acting separately, are posted in the same manner, but in one rank.

Posts of the Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers of a Squadron in line.

  The Captain commanding is posted at the centre of the squadron, the croup of his horse one pace in front of the heads of the horses of the front rank.
   The 2d Captain 3 paces in rear of the centre of the squadron. He is charged with the alignment of the rear rank and file closers.
   The senior 1st Lieutenant commands the 1st platoon; the other 1st Lieutenant commands the 4th platoon.
   The senior 2d Lieutenant commands the 2d platoon; the other 2d Lieutenant commands the 3d platoon.
   Each of these officers is posted at the centre of his platoon, with the croup of his horse one pace in front of the heads of the horses of the front rank.
   The senior sergeant is posted behind the 3d file from the right of the 1st platoon; he is the principal guide when the column of squadrons is left in front.
   The 2d sergeant behind the 3d file from the left of the 4th platoon; he is principal guide when the column of squadrons is right in front.
   The 3d sergeant is posted on the right of the front rank of the squadron; he is not counted in the rank.
   The 4th sergeant on the left of the front rank; he is not counted in the rank.
   The 5th sergeant on the left of the 1st platoon.
   The 6th sergeant on the right of the 2d platoon.
   The 7th sergeant on the right of the 3d platoon.
   The 8th sergeant on the right of the 4th platoon.
   The heads of the horses of all the file-closers are at one pace from the croup of those of the rear rank.
    The Corporals are posted in the front rank, on the right and left of their respective platoons, and supply the places of Sergeants when necessary.
   When guidons are used, they are carried by the non-commissioned officers on the left of the 1st and 3d platoons.

Posts of Officers and Non-Commissioned 0fficers of a Company acting singly.

   The Captain in front of the centre, one pace distant from the front rank.
   The 1st Lieutenant in rear of the centre, in the rank of file-closers. 
   The 2d Lieutenant commands the 1st platoon in the absence of a 3d Lieutenant the 2d platoon is commanded by the senior Sergeant. The chiefs of platoons are posted one pace in front of the centre of their respective platoons.
   The 1st sergeant in rear of the right, in the rank of file-closers.   
   The 2d and 3d sergeants on the right and left of the troop, not told off.
   A non-commissioned officer is posted on the left of the 1st platoon, and on the right of the 2d. corporals, next to the sergeants who are on the flanks of platoons.
   The saddler and farrier in rear of the left of the troop 8 paces retired from the line of file closers; and the buglers 20 paces in rear of the centre;

Assembly of a Regiment mounted.

    When a regiment is to mount, boots and saddles is sounded; at this signal the horses are saddled, bridled, and prepared to be led out.
    At the signal to horse ! the 1st Sergeants direct the men to lead out.
    The sergeants, corporals, and privates, being in two ranks, in the order of their platoons, at the heads of their horses, the orderly sergeant calls the roll. 
    The Captain directs them to call off by fours and to mount, and on reaching the regimental parade, reports all absentees to the Adjutant through his Orderly Sergeant.
    The Colonel detaches the troop which is to escort the standard; if the standard is too far from the parade ground, the Colonel detaches this troop before the regiment mounts.
    In camps, or when, the Colonel lodges in the barracks, the standard-bearer goes for the standard escorted only by two Sergeants.
    In case of alarm or surprise, to horse is sounded; the men then saddle, pack up, bridle, and mount with the utmost celerity, and repair to the place of assembly, which is always previously designated.

Assembly of a Regiment dismounted.

   When a regiment is to turn out under arms on foot, to arms will be sounded.  At this signal the men are formed and inspected, and the reports are made as is prescribed.

Formation of the Escort of the Standard.

   (Plate 2, fig. A.)  The squadrons of a regiment, commencing with the first, furnish in turn the escort of the standard.
   The Captain commanding and the 2nd Captain alternate in the command of this escort.
   It is composed of two platoons.
   Each squadron, successively, furnishes first its two first platoons, and then its two last.
   The 1st platoon of the escort furnishes the advanced guard, composed of two men in front, with the carbine advanced, or pistol raised, (according to the corps.) A corporal and four men with drawn sabres (or lances at a carry) march 10 paces from them.
   The trumpeters, formed by fours and conducted by the Adjutant, march 10 paces from the four men who precede.
   The rest of the platoon, with drawn sabres, (or lances at a carry,) having the Lieutenant at its head, marches by fours 10 paces from the Trumpeters.
   The standard-bearer follows immediately after between two Sergeants.
   The 2d platoon, with drawn sabres, (or lances ­at a carry,) having the 2d Lieutenant at its head, follows the standard-bearer, marches by fours, and furnishes the rear guard, composed of a, Corporal and two men, who march with drawn sabres (or lances at a carry,) 10 paces in rear of the 2d platoon.  
   Two other men, with the carbine advanced or pistol raised, (according to the corps,) march 10 paces in rear.  
   The Captain marches 4 paces from the left flank opposite to the standard-bearer.  
   This detachment having arrived where the standard is kept, without sounding the trumpets, is there formed into line.  
   The Adjutant dismounts, takes the standard, and gives it to the standard-bearer.

Reception of the Standard.    

   As soon as the standard appears, the Captain orders the sabres to be presented; the trumpets sound to the standard.  
   After this signal has been twice repeated, the Captain orders the sabres to be carried, and breaks in the same order in which he came; the trumpets sound the march.  
   When the standard arrives the Colonel orders the sabres to be drawn; the trumpets cease to sound, and, with the escort, take their place in line, passing behind the regiment.  
   The standard-bearer, accompanied by the two Sergeants, moves towards the centre of the regiment, parallel to the front, and halts before the Colonel, fronting the regiment; the Colonel then orders, the sabres to be presented, and the trumpets to sound to the standard; he salutes with the sabre. The standard-bearer then takes his place in line and the Colonel orders the sabres to be carried.  
   The field officers salute with the sabre when the standard passes before them.
   The standard receives the same honors on its departure as on its arrival, and it is escorted to the Colonel's quarters in the order prescribed above.  
   On foot, the escort is composed in the same manner, and the standard receives the same honors.

Salute with the Standard.

   When the standard is to pay honors, the standard-bearer salutes in the following manner, in two times

1. At 4 paces from the person who is to be saluted, lower the lance gently to the front, bending as near to the horizontal line as possible.  
2. Raise the lance gently when the person saluted has passed 4 paces.  

Salute with the Sabre.

   When the superior and other officers are to salute, whether on horseback or on foot, at a halt or marching they do it in four times.

1. At 4 paces from the person to be saluted, raise the sabre perpendicularly, the point upwards, the edge to the left, the hand opposite to and one foot from the right shoulder, the elbow 6 inches from the body.
2. Lower the blade, extending the arm to its full length, the hand in quarte, until the point of the sabre is near the foot.
3. Raise the sabre quickly, the point upwards, as in the first time, after the person saluted has passed 4 paces.
4. Carry the sabre to the shoulder.

ARTICLE SECOND.

FORMATION OF A REGIMENT OF FIVE SQUADRONS
 IN COLUMN.

Order in Column by twos or by fours.

   (Pl. 2, fig. B.) In this order, the squadrons preserve an interval of 12 paces (12 yards) between each other equal to their interval in line.  
   This distance measured from the croups of the horses of the last files of one squadron, to the heads of the horses of the first files of the next squadron.
   The Colonel marches at the centre of the regiment, on the side of the guides, 25 paces from the flank of the column, having behind him a chief bugler.  He moves wherever his presence may be necessary. 
   The Lieutenant-Colonel on the side of the guides, 12 paces from the flank of the column; be marches habitually on a line with the Lieutenant commanding the 1st platoon of the 1st squadron.  
   The Major marches in the direction of the Lieutenant-Colonel, and on a line with the particular guide of the left of the 5th squadron.  
   The Adjutant marches on the side of the guides, 2 paces from the flank and on a line with the first files of the column, to observe the guides and the direction of the march.  
   The Sergeant-Major marches on the side of the guides, 2 paces from the flank of the column, and on a line with the particular guide of the left of 5th squadron; if the left is in front, he executes on the side of the guides what is prescribed for the Adjutant when the right is in front.  
   The Quartermaster-Sergeant having the general guide of the right behind him, marches on the side opposite to the guides, two paces from the flank, and on a line with the first files of the column.
    The Captains commanding march on the side of the guides, and 4 paces from the flank and abreast of the centre of their squadrons.  
   The second Captains march on the side opposite to the guides, 4 pace from the flank, and abreast of the centre of their squadrons.  
   The 1st Lieutenant of each squadron marches at the head of the 1st platoon, one pace in advance of the first files, having the particular guide of the right on his right.  
   The chiefs of the other platoons march on the side of the guides, one pace from the flank of the column, and abreast of their first files; the file-closers march on the side opposite to the guides, one pace from the flank, and on a line with the centre of their platoons.  
   They all march in a similar manner on the flanks of the column when the left is in front; and, in this case, it is the junior 1st Lieutenant who marches in the column at the head of the 4th platoon of each squadron.  
   The particular guide, who in line is posted on the left of the squadron, marches behind the last files of the squadron; when the column is left in front, he takes post on the left of the officer commanding the 4th platoon, one pace in front of the left file.  
   When the nature of the ground obliges the officers and file-closers to enter the column, the movement is made successively; the superior officers, the Captains commanding, and the chiefs of platoons, place themselves at the head; the second Captains, and the file-closers, in rear of their respective troops.  
   The Major marches in rear of the column; and also the Sergeant-Major.  
   The primitive order is resumed as soon as the nature of the ground will permit.

Order in column of Platoons.

   (Pl. 3, fig. A.) In this order, the distance from one platoon to another, measured from the men of one front rank to those of another front rank, is equal to the front of a platoon; that is to say, it is 12 paces if the platoons are of twelve files. Subtracting the depth of two ranks, which is 6 paces, there remains 6 paces from the croup of the horses of the rear rank of one platoon to the heads of the horses of the front rank of the next platoon, a distance which is equal to half of the front of a platoon.
   The Colonel marches at the centre of the regiment, on the side of the guides, 25 paces from the flank of the column, having behind him a chief bugler; be moves wherever his presence may be required.  
   The Lieutenant-Colonel marches habitually on the side of the guides, 12 paces from the flank of the column, and on a line with the Lieutenant commanding the 1st platoon of the 1st squadron.  
   The Major marches in the direction of the Lieutenant-Colonel, and habitually abreast of the file-closers of the last platoon of the column.  
   The Adjutant marches behind the left file of the 1st platoon, to direct the guide of the column; he should occasionally place himself in front of this file, to satisfy himself that the guides of each platoon preserve the same direction.
   The Sergeant-Major marches on the side of the guides, 2 paces from the flank of the column, and abreast of the file-closers of the 4th platoon of the 5th squadron; and, if the left is in front, he executes on the side of the guides that which is prescribed for the Adjutant when the right is in front.  
   The Quartermaster-Sergeant having the general guide of the right behind him, marches on the side opposite to the guides, 2 paces from the flank of the column, and on a line with the front rank of the 1st platoon.  
   The Captains commanding march on the side of the guides, four paces from the flank of the column, and habitually abreast of the centre of their squadrons.  
   The second Captains march on the side opposite to the guides, 4 paces from the flank of the column, and abreast of the centre of their squadrons.  
   The 1st and 2d Lieutenants march at the centre of their platoons, one pace from the front rank; those who command the platoons at the head of squadrons preserve, besides their distance, the ground necessary to enable each squadron, in wheeling into line, to maintain its interval.
   The Sergeants, who are file-closers, march on the side opposite to the guides, behind the third file of their platoons.  
   When the column marches right in front, the particular guide of the right of each squadron marches on the right of the 1st platoon; and the particular guide of the left places himself as file-closer behind the 2d file from the left of the 4th platoon.  
   The post of these Sergeants is the reverse when the left is in front.  
   (PI. 3, fig. B.) The squadron being composed of 64 files, when it is broken into sections, the 1st Lieutenant of each squadron marches at the head of the 1st section of the 1st platoon; the chiefs of the other platoons remain on the side of the guides, one pace from and on a line with the front rank of their 1st section.  
   The file-closers, who command the 2d sections, march on the side opposite to the guides, one pace from and on a line with the front rank.  
   The posts of the commandants of sections is the reverse when the left is in front.

Order in column of Divisions.

   (Pl. 3, fig. C.) The Colonel, Lieutenant-Colonel, Major, and Adjutant, are posted as in the column of platoons.  
   It is the same for the Captains commanding, and the second Captains.  
   The senior 1st Lieutenant commands the 1st division, the other 1st Lieutenant the 2d; they remain, however, at the centre of their platoons.  
   All the other officers and Sergeants of each division are posted as prescribed in the order in column of platoons, the file-closers remaining in their places, on whatsoever side the guide may be.  

Order in close column.

   (Pl. 4.) In this order, the distance from one squadron to another, which is 12 paces, (12 yards,) is measured from the croup of the horses of the rear rank of one squadron, to the heads of the horses of the front rank of the next squadron.  
   The Colonel, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Major, are posted as in columns of platoons. The Adjutant marches behind the left guide of the 1st squadron, on the alignment of the file-closers, to superintend the direction of the march.  
   The Sergeant-Major is posted as in column of platoons, and, when the left is in front, he performs the same duties as the Adjutant when the right is in front.  
   The Quartermaster-Sergeant marches on the side opposite to the guides, as in column of platoons.  
   The particular guide of the left wing of the 1st squadron moves to the front on the alignment of the officers; he is replaced by the Sergeant file-closer of the 4th platoon. If the left is in front, the particular guide of the right of the 5th squadron places himself on the alignment of the officers to serve as guide: he is replaced by the Sergeant file-closer of the 1st platoon.  
   All the officers of the squadron and the file-closers remain posted as in order of battle, except the Captains commanding, who march on the side of the guides, 4 paces from the flank, and on a line with the officers of their squadrons.  

Compliments by Cavalry Under Review.

The regiment being in line, the Captains one pace in advance of the centre of their companies, the Lieutenants commanding platoons one pace in advance of the centre of their platoons, the Colonel commands:

1. Attention.  
2. Prepare for review.  
3. Rear rank, open order.  
4. MARCH.  
5. Right - DRESS.  
6. FRONT.

   At the fourth command, the ranks are opened after the principles prescribed No. 436, all the officers in the rank of the file-closers advancing to the front, and placing themselves on the line of officers opposite to the positions they before occupied. The staff officers place themselves on the right of the rank of company officers, according to their relative rank, one pace from each other. The Quartermaster-Sergeant and the Sergeant-Major, are on the right, of the front rank of the regiment.  
   The Colonel, Lieutenant-Colonel, Major, and Adjutant, are posted as in order of battle.  
   The music is formed at the same time in one rank on the right of the regiment, and ten paces from it. 
   After the ranks are opened, the Colonel commands:

1. Attention.  
2. Draw - SABRE.

   In this parade order, the regiment awaits the approach of the personage who is to review it; for whose guide a camp-color will have been placed eighty or one hundred and fifty paces in front of the centre, according to the extent of the line, and the plain in front of it.  
   When the reviewing personage is midway between the camp-color and the Colonel, the latter turns his horse to the right-about on his ground and commands:

1. Attention.  
2. Present - SABRE.

   And resumes immediately his proper front. The officers all salute.  
   When the reviewing personage, who has halted until the proper compliments are paid, advances, the Colonel brings his sabre to a carry, turns about as before to the line, and commands:

1. Attention.  
2. Carry - SABRE.

   When the whole line remains perfectly steady, except the Colonel, who resumes his proper front.
   The reviewing personage now turns of to the right of the regiment, passes thence, in front of all the Officers to the left around the left, and behind the rank of file-closers, to the right again. While he is passing around the regiment no matter what his rank, the music will play; and when he turns off to take his station near the camp-color, the music will cease.  
   When the music ceases the Colonel turns about and commands:

1. Attention.  
2. Rear rank, close order.  
3. MARCH.

   At the command MARCH, all the officers from the rank of file-closers return to their position in that rank.  
   The reviewing personage having taken a position near the camp-color, previously placed at a proper distance, the Colonel causes the regiment to break into column of companies right or left, in front, and commands:

Pass in review.

   At this command the band and trumpeters repair to the head of the regimental column, 6 paces in front of the Colonel. The Quartermaster-Sergeant places himself 10 paces in front of the Colonel, 2 paces from the flank opposite to the guides.  
   The Quartermaster, Surgeon, and Assistant Surgeon, are in one rank, in the order in which they are named, 4 paces in rear of the last division.  
   The Colonel is 6 paces in front of the Captain of the leading company.  
   The Lieutenant-Colonel on a line with the first company, 6 paces from the flank opposite to the guide.  
   The Major on a line with the last company, 6 paces from the side opposite to the guide.  
   The Adjutant on a line with the second company, 6 paces from the flank opposite to the guide.  
   The Sergeant-Major on a line with the company next to the rear, 6 paces from the flank opposite to the guide.
   Captains, 2 paces in advance of the centre of their companies.  
   Chiefs of platoons, 2 paces in advance of the centre of their platoons.  
   Officers of the rank of file-closers, on the side opposite to the guide, on a line with the chiefs of platoons.  
   The column is then put in march, at a walk, with the guide on the side next to the reviewing personage.  
   The column first passes at a walk, and afterwards, if required, at a trot.  
   The regiments take, in marching, intervals of about 40 paces from each other.  
   When the head of the column arrives within 50 paces of the reviewing personage, the music commences to play.  
   The band having passed, the chief musician causes it to wheel out of the column and take position opposite to the reviewing personage; the music continues to play, until the last company has passed, when it ceases, and follows in the rear.  
   Passing at a walk, the Colonel and all the officers salute with the sabre, as they successively arrive within six paces of the reviewing personage, turning the heads towards him.  
   The standard does not salute, except to the President or Vice-President of the United States, Governors of States, Heads of Departments, or the Commander-in-Chief; when the trumpets are to flourish in passing, the band ceases playing, and resumes the same air or march when the flourishes have ceased.  
   The guides and the men keep the head well to the front in passing in review.  

Form and Course of Inspection.

   The regiment being in line as prescribed for a review, on an intimation from the Inspector, the Colonel causes the companies to wheel to the right. He then orders the ranks to be opened; at which the standard-bearers, under the direction of the Adjutant, are posted about 20 paces ahead of the column.  
   The Colonel seeing the ranks aligned, commands: 1. Officers and non-commissioned officers. 2. To the front of your companies - MARCH, on which the officers form themselves in one rank, 12 paces, and the non-commissioned officers in one rank, 6 paces in advance, along the whole front of their respective troops, in the order of rank, the highest on the right, and the lowest on the left; the trumpeters of each company, at the same time, take post on the alignment of the front rank, 6 paces from the right; and the farriers in the rear on the alignment of the rear rank.  
   Seeing the last order in a train of execution, the Colonel commands: 1. Field and staff. 2.To the front - MARCH. The commissioned officers thus designated, form themselves in one rank, 12 paces in front of the standards, in the following order, beginning on the right: Lieutenant-Colonel, Major, Adjutant, Quartermaster, Surgeon, and Assistant Surgeon. The non-commissioned staff in a similar manner, 6 paces in rear of the preceding rank. The band is formed in one rank, 10 paces in rear of the column, the chief musician 4 paces in front of it.  
   The Colonel now takes post on the right of the Lieutenant-Colonel; but such of the field officers as may be superior in rank to the Inspector, do not take post as above.  
   The inspection commences in front. After inspecting the dress and general appearance of the field and commissioned staff, the Inspector, accompanied by these officers, passes down the column, looking at every rank, in front and in rear, with a view to the same objects. He afterwards, in a like manner, passes and inspects the arms; as he successively approaches each company for this purpose, its Captain commands: 1. ­Attention. 2. Inspection – (of) ARMS, which is executed as prescribed No. 405.  
   The Inspector then dismounts with the field and commissioned staff, for the purpose of inspecting horse furniture, and valises, preparatory to which the Colonel causes the column to dismount. The men being then in the position of stand to horse, the Colonel commands: REST, for the whole column; when the Inspector proceeds to make a minute inspection of the several ranks, in succession, commencing in front.  
   On approaching the non-commissioned staff and the band, the Adjutant gives the necessary orders for the inspection of boxes and valises; and in a like manner as to the standard-bearers. To enable the latter to display their valises, after dismounting, the standards are planted firm in the ground. This division being inspected, the Adjutant may direct the standard-bearers to link and to disperse, until the standards are to be escorted back to the place from which they were taken. The non-commissioned staff may be dismissed as soon as inspected.  
   As the Inspector successively approaches the companies, each Captain commands: 1. Attention. 2. Unstrap valises. 3. Open boxes, when the valises are placed at the feet of the men, with the flaps from them.  In this position the Inspector may examine the contents of the whole, boxes and valises, or of as many as he may think necessary, beginning again with the non-commissioned­ officers, noticing, in passing, the tools, &c., of the farriers, and the trumpets of the musicians.  
   As the Inspector passes each company, the Captain orders the valises to be repacked and restrapped, and the men to file off to their tents or quarters, except the company which is to escort the standards, which awaits the orders of the Colonel.  
In an extensive column, some of the rearmost companies, when dismounted, after the inspection of dress, general appearance, horses and arms, may be permitted to link, awaiting the approach of the Inspector. In this case, such companies resume the position above supposed, before the minute inspection.  

ARTICLE THIRD.

DUTIES OF INSTRUCTORS.

   The Colonel is responsible for the instruction of the regiment, and he shall not change, under any pretext, the dispositions contained in this book.  
   He will be present, as often as his other duties permit, at the theoretical and practical instructions, and especially at that of the officers assembled together.
   The Lieutenant-Colonel, and Major, are especially charged with the supervision of the instruction of their respective wings.  
   Individual instruction being the basis of the instruction of squadrons, on which that of a regiment depends, and the first principles having the greatest influence upon this individual instruction, the classes of recruits should be watched with the greatest care.  
   The instructors place themselves habitually at such a distance that they can see their whole troop at a glance, and make themselves distinctly heard by it. They leave their place as seldom as possible, and only to make the corrections which are indispensable in the position of the men and the execution of the movements.  
   They repeat, in a few clear and precise words, the explanations which have not been well understood; and, not to overburden the memory of the men, they always use the same terms to demonstrate the same principles.  
   They should often join example to precept, should keep up the attention of the men by an animated tone, and pass to another movement as soon as that which they command has been executed in a satisfactory manner. In fine, they should become every day more exacting, in regard to precision and unity.  
   When at rest, the instructor questions the men, to satisfy himself that their lessons have been well understood. In the theoretical instruction, he requires the commands and explanations to be given as if they were on the ground.  

ARTICLE FOURTH.

DIVISION, ORDER, AND PROGRESSION OF INSTRUCTION.

   As instruction cannot be established on a solid basis without joining theory to practice, there is in each regiment a theoretical instruction, independent of the exercises in the field.
   As instruction cannot be established on a solid basis without joining theory to practice, there is in each regiment a theoretical instruction, independent of the exercises in the field.
   From the 1st of November to the 1st of May, the Colonel assembles the officers at least twice a week, for the theory of the different parts of their instruction.  
   The Major and Adjutant assemble, in a like manner, the Sergeants and Corporals.  
   From the 1st of May to the 1st of November, these theoretical exercises occur once a week for all, and oftener if necessary.  
   The practical instruction is divided into instruction on foot and instruction mounted.  
   The instruction on foot, as well as the instruction mounted, includes the school of the trooper, the school of the platoon, and the school of the squadron.  
   The school of the trooper is divided into four lessons, and each lesson into two parts.  
   The school of the platoon is divided into four articles.  
   The school of the squadron is divided into four articles.  

Instruction.

   Each lesson lasts one hour and a half, without including the rests.      
   When the weather is bad, the men are exercised in the riding-house. They are conducted to the riding-ground whenever the weather will permit.  
   The horses of the Orderly Sergeants, and Trumpeters, cannot be excused on any pretext from participating in the different classes of instruction.  
   The horses which have not been trained, are sent out with a snaffle bridle at least three times a week; and, as far as possible, they are all saddled and ridden.  
   The Colonel causes the squadrons, divisions, and platoons, to be commanded by all the officers in turn, in order to satisfy himself of their instruction, and to instruct those who are not already sufficiently instructed.  
   During the summer, and until the end of October, the regiment is exercised alternately at the evolutions and in the details of the service in war.  For this purpose, whenever it is practicable, the Colonel takes the regiment into the country, in order to accustom it to pass over all kinds of ground and to apply the evolutions to the different localities.
   The remount horses are, sent out every day for two hours, saddled, and bridled with a snaffle.  
   The non-commissioned officers and privates, who are negligent in the different exercises, either on foot or mounted, are put back into the lower classes.  
   When the regiment is assembled, the Colonel should direct the superior officers to command occasionally, in the different evolutions, in order to judge of the progress of their instruction. He should also require the other officers to exercise a command superior to that of their grades, when the instruction is sufficiently advanced.    

ARTICLE FIFTH.

GRADATION OF INSTRUCTION.

Recruits.

   The recruit commences his instruction on foot. The first week after his arrival at the regiment is employed exclusively in instructing him in all the details of discipline, police, and interior service, and in those relating to his dress and the grooming of his horse.  
   He is taught to mount without saddle, on both sides of the horse.  
   He is taught the name and use of the principal parts of the arms and equipments, and the manner of keeping them clean; the manner of rolling the cloak, of folding the effects, and of placing them in the valise.  
   These different instructions are given by the corporal of the squad, under the superintendence of the Sergeant and officer of the platoon.  
   At the end of this week, the recruit commences the first lesson on foot; he continues to be instructed in the above-mentioned details.  
   The recruits are drilled on foot twice a day when possible and an hour and a half each time. Half an hour of this time is employed in teaching them the duties of guards.


   At the end of six weeks or two months at most, the recruits should be able to mount the quarter guard, and, consequently, they should have commenced the fourth lesson on foot.  
   Before the recruit mounts guard, he learns the different parts of a complete equipment, and the means of preserving it; and, also, the manner of saddling, bridling, unsaddling, and unbridling, and of packing his effects on the horse.  
   After he has mounted his first guard, his instruction on horseback is commenced, care being taken to give him a gentle and well-trained horse.

Recapitulation of the time necessary to instruct a trooper to the school of the platoon mounted, inclusive.

School of the Trooper.

DISMOUNTED.

1st lesson 1st part, 5 lessons  
  2d part 15 lessons 20 lessons
2d lesson 1st part, 20 lessons  
  2d part 20 lessons 40 lessons
3d lesson 1st part, 15 lessons  
  2d part 15 lessons 30 lessons
4th lesson 1st part, 15 lessons  
  2d part 15 lessons 30 lessons

 Total, 70 lessons.

 MOUNTED.

1st lesson

1st part,

5 lessons

 

 

2d part

15 lessons

20 lessons

2d lesson

1st part,

20 lessons

 

 

2d part

20 lessons

40 lessons

3d lesson

1st part,

15 lessons

 

 

2d part

15 lessons

30 lessons

4th lesson

1st part,

15 lessons

 

 

2d part

15 lessons

30 lessons

Total, 120 lessons.

NOTE. - As the school of the platoon dismounted should progress conjointly with that of the Trooper mounted, the number of lessons will be such as may be judged necessary.

School of the Platoon.

1st article

15 lessons

2d article

15 lessons

3d article

15 lessons

4th article

15 lessons

Total, 60 lessons.

   It results from this gradation, that the trooper, after 180 lessons or days of instruction, should be able to enter the School of the Squadron.  

Corporals.

  The Corporals should be capable or executing, all the lessons mounted and dismounted, and should be qualified to teach at least the two first lessons dismounted, and the first lesson mounted.  
  Their theoretical instruction should include, in addition to these lessons, all the details relative to the functions of their grade in the interior service, both in garrison and in campaign.  
  The Colonel selects, in each squadron a certain number of privates, who may be admitted to the theoretical instruction of the Corporals.

Sergeants.

   The Sergeants should be capable of executing, dismounted and mounted, all that is prescribed by this book; and should be able to teach the lessons of the school of the trooper. They should likewise know all the details of the service so as to have in their power to conduct their troop and replace the chiefs of platoons if necessary.  
   The theoretical instruction of the Sergeants should include the basis of instruction, the school of the trooper, the school of the platoon, and the school of the squadron; also, the regulations for the interior service in garrison and in campaign, so far as their grade is concerned.  
   The Colonel selects, in each company those among the corporals whom he judges fit to be admitted to the theoretical instruction of the Sergeants.

Officers.

   Every officer, from the Colonel to the 2d Lieutenant, should be able to command according to his rank. No one will be considered fully instructed unless he can also explain and execute all that is contained in this book.  
   The theory of the officers should include this book and all the regulations which prescribe their duties in their different positions, either in peace or war.  
   Every officer who joins the regiment for the first time, must be examined on his theoretical and practical instruction by the Colonel.  
   If the faults committed on drill by an officer of any rank whatsoever, arise from negligence or want of instruction, the commandant of the regiment shall cause him to be immediately replaced.  
   If the Colonel thinks proper, he may excuse from the theory, every other time, those officers whose instruction is completed.

ARTICLE SIXTH.

INSTRUCTION TO MOUNT WITHOUT SADDLE, TO PACK UP, TO SADDLE, AND TO UNSADDLE.

  Manner of Vaulting.

   Seize the mane with the left hand, hold the reins of the snaffle in the right hand, and place it on the withers, the thumb to the left, the fingers to the right; raise yourself lightly the on two wrists, the body straight; pass the right leg extended, over the croup of the horse, without touching him, and seat yourself gently on horseback.  
   To dismount, pass the Ieft rein of the snaffle into the right hand; place this hand on the withers; seize the mane with the left hand, raise yourself gently on the two wrists, pass the right leg extended over the croup of the horse without touching him; bring the right thigh near the left, the body straight, and come to the ground lightly on the toes, bending the knees a little.

Manner of packing up the Effects.

   The uniform pantaloons, folded the length of the valise should be well spread out in the bottom.
   The white pantaloons, folded in the same manner, placed on the uniform pantaloons.
   The shirts unfolded, are laid on the white pantaloons. The soldier's book on the shirts. The cap‑cord on the book. The shaving case, the pocket-handkerchiefs, the gloves, and the socks, divided equally, in the ends.
   The second pair of boots under the flap of the valise.
   The plume in its case, along with the boots.
   The stable jacket in the valise-wallet; and also, the forage-cap, which is placed in the middle.
   The stable frock rolled the length of the cloak, in the forage-sack.
   The things used in grooming, the brushes, grease-box and other cleaning utensils, in the holster-pouch.

Manner of rolling the Cloak.

   The cloak being entirely unfolded, the sleeves are laid flat and extended parallel to the two front edges of the cloak; each one is then turned up and folded near the elbow, so as to give a length of 3 feet 6 inches from one elbow to the other, the middle of the cloak remaining uncovered. The cape is then turned down over the sleeves, in such a manner that the front edges may exactly cover those of the cloak.
   The lower extremity of the cloak is turned up about ten inches; the skirts are likewise turned towards each other, so that they may touch the fold of the sleeves, and that being folded a second time upon themselves, they may give to the cloak the form of a rectangle; the lower extremity of the cloak is then turned up about 7 inches, and it is rolled as tightly as possible, commencing at the collar and pressing the knee upon it as it is rolled, to hold it. The part of the cloak which is rolled is then introduced into the sort of pocket formed by the part which was turned back.
 

Manner of adjusting a Saddle.

HEAVY CAVALRY.

   The saddle should be placed on the horse without a blanket, in order to see clearly whether its shape agrees with that of his back.  
   In order that the saddle may be well-placed, it is necessary that the point of the bow should be three fingers in rear of the point of the shoulder; that the gullet leave sufficient room on the withers and loins to permit the hand to be passed easily between these parts and the saddle, when the trooper is mounted; that the front part of the gullet be sufficiently wide to prevent the pad from pressing on the side of the withers; that the bars bear equally upon all parts without touching the back-bone, and that the points of the bow do not press upon the back.  The breast-strap should be placed above the point of the shoulders, so as to not interfere with their movements, and the crupper should not be stretched for fear of wounding the horse under the tail.

LIGHT CAVALRY

   The saddle should be laid on the horse without a blanket, in order to see clearly whether its shape agrees with that of his back.  
   In order that the saddle may be well placed it is necessary that the front end of the bars should be three fingers in rear of the point of the shoulder; that the bows be sufficiently elevated above the withers and loins to allow the fist to be passed under the rear bow, and almost as much under the front one, when the trooper is mounted; that the ends of the bars do not bear upon the back, and that the finger can be passed under them; that the rest of the bars bear flatly on the back, in such a way, however, that the finger may be passed between their upper edge and the back, and that they may be at least two fingers'  breadth from the back-bone. The breast-strap should be placed above the point of the shoulders, so as not to interfere with their movement. The leathern heart should be in the middle of the breast, and the crupper should not be stretched for fear of wounding the horse under the tail.  

   To attach the stirrups to the saddle run the stirrup-leather through the eye of the stirrup, pass it through the loop, and draw it up until the loop touches the eye of the stirrup: then, holding the stirrup-leather in such a manner that the buckle may be turned towards the horse, run it through the hole or staple in the saddle from above, and draw it down; fasten it at the proper length by means of the buckle, run it through the loop which is under the buckle, and pass the end twice through the same loop.  
   When the stirrup is arranged in this manner, and hangs naturally, the buckle will be on the inside next to the horse.

Manner of Saddling.

HEAVY CAVALRY.

   Approach the horse on the left side, and lay the blanket, folded in four equal parts, on his back; the edges on the left side, the large fold on the withers.  
   Seize it, then, with the left hand on the withers, and with the right on the loins; slide it once or twice from front to rear to smooth the hair, taking care to raise it in carrying it forward­, so as not to brush up the hair.  
   The blanket should be so arranged as not to project be­yond the bars in rear.  
   Throw the girths over the seat of the saddle, and also the crupper, which is held with the left hand.  
   Seize the saddle with the same hand at the pommel, the right hand under the cantle, place it gently on the horse’s back, bringing it from the direction of the croup, in order not to frighten him, and place it a little in rear that the crupper may be put on without drawing it back.  Let down the girths and crupper, step behind the horse, seize the tail with the left hand, and twist the hair around the dock with the right hand, which then seizes the crupper and passes the tail through it, taking care that none of the hair remains under it, which would hurt the horse.  
   Step to the right side of the horse to let down the right stirrup, return to the left side, raise up the saddle, carry it forward, taking care that the blanket is smooth, that it does not compress the withers, which is avoided by raising it up over this part; see that there are no straps caught under the saddle; begin by fastening the first girth, which is passed through the loop of the breast-strap; the second girth less tight than the first girth and surcingle, because it is the one which most impedes the respiration of the horse; then buckle the breast-strap and let down the stirrup.

LIGHT CAVALRY.

   Approach the horse on the left side, and lay the blanket, folded into 12 or 16 thicknesses, on his back: the edges on the left side.  
   Seize it, then, with the left hand on the withers, and with the right on the loins; slide it once or twice from front to rear to smooth the hair, taking care to raise it in carrying it forward, so as not to brush up the hair.  
   The blanket should be so arranged as not to project one finger's breadth be­yond the bars in rear.  
   Seize the saddle at the pommel with the left hand, at the cantle with the right hand, and place it gently on the horse’s back, bringing it from the direction of his croup, in order not to frighten him, and place it a little in rear, that the crupper may be put on without drawing it back.  Let down the girth, breast-strap, and crupper; step behind the horse, seize the tail with the left hand, and twist the hair around the dock with the right, which then seizes the crupper and passes the tail through it, taking care that none of the hair remains under it, which would hurt the horse.  
   Step to the right side of the horse, and, seizing the saddle at the cantle with the left hand, and at the pommel with the right hand, raise it and carry it forward, without moving the blanket; see at the same time that there are no straps caught under the saddle; place the girth flat and pass it through the loop of the false martingale; return to the left side by the head of the horse; run the left hand between the withers and the blanket; raise it up a little so that it will not compress the withers, buckle the girth and the breast-strap.

Manner of packing the Effects on the Horse.

HEAVY CAVALRY.

   The schabraque being on the saddle, the front part turned back on the seat, and the packing straps run through their holes, fasten, the cloak and the forage-sack containing the stable-frock, drawing the middle-strap very tight, that the cloak may be on the pommel.  With the cloak straps, fasten the ends of the cloak and forage-sack in such a manner that the ends shall not project beyond the schabraque.  Place the pistol in the holster in front of the cloak, and fasten the strap in the ring of the butt.  Place the hatchet in its case, and turn down the front of the schabraque.  
   Extend the right and left packing-straps upon the croup; place the wallet flat upon the pillion; lay the middle packing-strap over the wallet; place the valise with the buckles towards the saddle; fasten it tightly with this strap; fasten the wallet and valise together with the side-straps; then attach the forage cord, rolled and twisted into a circle, to the left pack-strap, under the schabraque; in the same manner, attach the watering bridle on the right side; see that there is no fold in the valise, and that it lays flat.  
When nose-bags are used, they will be attached to the pommel, on the off side.

LIGHT CAVALRY.

   The schabraque being on the saddle, the front part turned back on the seat, and the surcingle passed through loop of the false martingale, the packing straps run through their holes, fasten, the cloak and the forage-sack containing the stable-frock, drawing the middle-strap very tight, that the cloak may be in front of the pommel, falling down in front of the holsters.  With the cloak straps, fasten the ends of the cloak and forage-sack in such a manner that the ends shall not project beyond the schabraque.  Place the pistol in the holster inside of the cloak, and fasten the strap in the ring of the butt.  Place the hatchet in its case, turn down the front of the schabraque, and pass the gun-strap through its hole.  
   Extend the right and left packing-straps upon the croup; place the wallet flat against the cantle; lay the middle packing-strap over the wallet; place the valise with the buckles towards the saddle; fasten it tightly to the peak with this strap; fasten the wallet and valise together with the side-straps; then attach the forage cord, rolled and twisted into a circle, on the left side, under the schabraque; in the same manner, attach the watering bridle on the right side to the straps which are fixed to the saddle for that purpose; see that there is no fold in the valise.  
Fasten the lock-cover to the cloak-strap on the right side, the buckles against the schabraque.

   When blankets are used instead of schabraques, they will be folded twice, with the edges placed on the off side.  
   To have the effects well packed, the three straps must be tightly buckled, and must come up straight 3 inches from each other; the three buckles on the same line in the middle of the valise; the valise and wallet square, so that both can be seen from behind. (Light cavalry, the wallet placed in such a manner that it cannot be seen from behind.)  
   The valise and wallet should not incline to either side.  
   The cloak and other articles in front should be so arranged, as to raise the bridle-hand as little as possible.  
   Nothing should project beyond the schabraque.  
   If a bundle of forage is to be carried, it is placed on the valise, a little to the rear, and tied to the, packing-straps.  
   When the carbine is in the boot, it is so placed that its end may be 4 or 5 inches from the horses shoulder, without projecting beyond it; it is fastened to the saddle by the gun-strap, which makes two turns round the small of the stock. The carbine must never be left in the boot, when the horses enter or go out of the stable.

Manner of Bridling.

   Stand on the left side of the horse, the reins of the snaffle and of the curb-bridle in the bend of the left arm, the top of the head-stall on the forearm. Seize the curb-bridle and the snaffle by the top of the head-stall with the right hand, the nails downwards; pass the arm over the horse's neck, so that the hand may be in front of his head; seize the snaffle-bit with the left hand near the ring, and the curb-bit near the boss, taking care that the snaffle-bit is above the curb-bit; place them together in the horse's mouth, pressing the left thumb upon the bars to make him open it; pass the horse's ears between the front and top of the head-stall, commencing with the right; run the nose-band through the square rings of the halter, so that the part of the halter over the nose may be covered, and buckle it, leaving the cheek-pieces of the snaffle outside; hook the curb, buckle the throat-strap, passing it under that of the halter ; fasten the button-hole of the halter to the button on the top of the head-stall; clear the f